MUST-DO EXPERIENCES INSIDER SECRETS & HIDDEN GEMS ITINERARIES & MAPS - Visit Canberra
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Capital Circle
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Langton Crescent
MUST-DO EXPERIENCES • INSIDER SECRETS & HIDDEN GEMS • ITINERARIES & MAPS
WHAT’S Inside
Discover why Canberra is number three in Lonely Planet ’s top 10 cities to visit in 2018.
You’ll find one good thing after another in the national capital
PRECINCTS 4 Mocan and
Green Grout
GREAT WINE 26
Explore the best destinations this evolving, With local conditions that are ideal for
cosmopolitan city has to offer. A diverse producing outstanding cool-climate wines,
range of trendy neighbourhoods present the greater Canberra region boasts more
a variety of fantastic dining, shopping, than 30 vineyards within a short driving
entertainment and cultural experiences. distance from the city centre.
GREAT FOOD 16
From award-winning restaurants
and cafés to street eats, pub grub and
innovative cuisine options, Canberra
is a haven for foodies seeking indulgent, Yarrh Wines
Mint Garden Bar
flavoursome dining experiences.
2 1300 554 114
Share your shots of Canberra
#VisitCanberra
SUMMER
Red Hill
Lookout
BEER & SPIRITS 32 @gemnolen
THE ABORIGINAL MEMORIAL, 1987–88, BY RAMINGINING ARTISTS, NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA. COVER ILLUSTRATION BY AMY HEYCOCK
Like Canberra’s booming wine industry, National Arboretum Canberra
the local craft beer and spirits scene
has emerged as one of Australia’s most
AUTUMN
dynamic. The many esteemed breweries and
distilleries around town will satisfy all tastes. Tidbinbilla Nature
Reserve
OUTDOORS & NATURE 55
Canberra really turns it on when it comes
@pyromup
Lake Burley Griffin
to the great outdoors. There’s bushwalking
and mountain bike riding, spectacular
native flora and fauna, and breathtaking WINTER
The Aboriginal Memorial views from a hot-air balloon or lookout.
at the National Gallery
of Australia
EVENT PICKS 60
ARTS & CULTURE 34 Time your visit to Canberra with an exciting
event, including Enlighten in autumn,
@salt_0f_the_earth
Canberra is home to a vast array of The Truffle Festival in winter, Floriade in Corin Forest
treasured national attractions. Galleries, spring and one of the National Gallery of
museums, libraries and memorials will Australia’s exhibitions throughout the year.
captivate curious visitors and history buffs SPRING
for days with educational experiences.
VISITOR INFO 63
Ensure your visit to the national capital is
enjoyable and hassle-free with this go-to
guide of tips and information for getting
around the city and surrounding regions. @isabelnbunny
Floriade
BEYOND CANBERRA 64
Cockington Go for a drive to explore some of the © VisitCanberra
Green Gardens stunning destinations within reach of Canberra Visitor Guide 2018 is published by Medium Rare Content Agency
(02 8114 8907, mediumrarecontent.com) for VisitCanberra, part of the
Canberra, from snow-capped mountains
LEARN & PLAY
ACT Government. VisitCanberra uses PEFC-certified stock, which is from
and beautiful beaches to ancient caves.
44 sustainably managed forests and controlled sources and is recognised in Australia
through the Australian Forestry Standard PEFC/21-31-51. ISSN 1832-0589.
CITY MAP
GPO Box 158, Canberra City, ACT 2601. T: (02) 6205 0666,
Children of all ages will love Canberra’s
unique range of fun and educational kids’ 74 E: visitcanberra@act.gov.au. Tourist information: 1300 554 114.
Printed November 2017.
attractions. The city’s parks, zoos, museums Make getting around Canberra a breeze
and indoor activity centres will ensure with this user-friendly map of the CBD
a memorable visit for the whole family. and surrounding suburbs.
CANBERRA AND REGION VISITORS CENTRE
LOCAL MERCHANDISE • TOURS AND TICKETS • ACCOMMODATION DEALS
Regatta Point, Barrine Drive, Parkes, ACT 2600 • 1300 554 114 or +61 2 6205 0044 (outside Australia)
• Open 9am-5pm on weekdays • Open 9am-4pm on weekends and public holidays • Closed Christmas Day
Scene
STEALERS
FOOD,
GLORIOUS FOOD!
hts of
Discover the edible delig n
a Cit y an d Br ad do
the Canberr a
wi th an Ea t Ca nb err
precincts 0, Lonsdale Street, Braddon
5 95
walking tour (0449 25
eatcanberra.com.au/
food-tours). Buzzing, trendy precincts with great food, entertainment and
shopping make Canberra one of Australia’s most vibrant cities
BRADDON
Nestled on the edge of the city centre, Fashion shoppers can find everything
Braddon was a hospitality and shopping they need in Braddon, from European style
wasteland for decades. Historically home at Things of Desire to the latest threads at
to car yards, workshops and light industry, Rebel Muse and Pink Ink. Browse for vintage
the past 10 years has seen the precinct garments at Designer Op Shop and quirky
boom into a vibrant hub of contemporary items at itrip iskip, or find something special
fashion, dining and residential space. from local labels at collaborative boutique
Lonsdale Street, the suburb’s major Assemblage Project. Children’s clothing is
artery, has become a hotbed of day and catered for at Tip You’re it! and Lellow Kids.
night action. With boutique shops, bars Drop by the new Nibu x Palko buildings on
and restaurants lining the road, a once Lonsdale Street for excellent food, fashion and
tired and under-appreciated area is now homewares. Make sure you visit Bisonhome
a lively and popular destination. (bisonhome.com) and Kin Gallery (0431 052
Few developments encapsulate the 214) while you’re there.
changing face of Braddon more than Ori, the Just a 15-minute walk from Lonsdale
mixed-use commercial space on Lonsdale Street is Ainslie + Gorman Arts Centres
Street that’s home to edgy retail outlets. (02 6182 0000, agac.com.au), a space for
Taking its name from Japanese origami that creative minds where visitors can enjoy arts
Handsomepretty inspires its design, the industrial building and music. Featuring professional artists
is contemporary, yet acknowledges the and heritage gardens, this tranquil setting
neighbourhood’s blue-collar past. is a city oasis where creativity flourishes.
4 1300 554 114
Precincts
BRADDON DAY ITINERARY
Make your way to inner-city Braddon to take
5 14 7
in everything this diverse suburb has to offer
9am 3 15 8
Mort Stre et
1
Start your day at Lonsdale Street Roasters 6
tr e e t
(02 6156 0975, lonsdalestreetroasters.com) 4
with a café breakfast and a bag of blended
L o n s d a le S
13
or single-origin coffee to take home.
1 minute 9
10am 10
Shop for preloved and designer clothing 17
2
and homewares at Designer Op Shop
(02 6225 8128, designeropshop.com.au),
Elouer a Street
then head two minutes up the road to Rebel 2
3
Muse (02 6262 5719, rebelmuse.com.au) 16
for ladies’ clothing, shoes and accessories. 20 11
Mort Stre et
Lons dale Stre et
1 minute
Eighty/Twenty Food 12
11am
Shopping destination Ori features 1
fashion, homewares, jewellery, furniture,
FOODIE CENTRAL a florist and barber. Browse for timber, 18 19
glass, textile and ceramic homewares
Braddon is spoilt for choice when it comes 4
at Timber & Tailor (0412 610 918,
to cafés, international cuisine and fine
timberandtailor.com), hunt for collectables
dining. Several establishments serve 5
at Hive (02 6247 5166, facebook.com/
delicious breakfast, lunch and fresh
thehivelonsdalest) or search for gifts
Cooyo ng Street
coffee daily, including Barrio Collective 6
and homewares at Handsomepretty
(0423 100 814, barriocollective.com),
(0429 533 338, handsomepretty.com.au).
a coffee bar and roaster at Ori.
Head to Toasted (facebook.com/ 3 minutes
toastedcanberra), which does amazing 12pm 1 minute
things with two pieces of cooked bread. Still at Ori, check out quirky clothing 2.30pm
The health-conscious can visit Elemental 7
boutiques itrip iskip (02 6257 9950, Gents can get pampered with
café (02 6248 7502, elementalcafe.com), itripiskip.com) and Assemblage Project
8
a hot-towel shave at Groomed
14
Eighty/Twenty Food (02 6247 2866, (0435 001 886, assemblageproject.com). (02 6181 4310, groomedonlonsdale.
eightytwentyfood.com.au), Kith + Nosh Then continue up Lonsdale Street, where com.au), before heading to
(02 6170 1352, facebook.com/kithandnosh) you’ll find children’s apparel at Lellow 15
Braddon Tailors (02 6181 6442,
or vegan café Sweet Bones (0413 067 890, 9
Kids (02 6162 1272, lellow.com.au); braddontailors.com) to get fitted for
sweetbonescompany.com). 10
edgy fashion at Pink Ink (02 6249 1215, a new suit. Ladies can visit The Lab
16
Casual dining destinations include Pizza pinkinkboutique.com.au); and more kids’ (02 6230 4143, the-lab.com.au) on
Gusto (02 6257 7508, pizzagusto.com.au) for clothing you’ll love at Tip You’re It!
11
Elouera Street for a treatment from the
wood-fired pizza and calzone; Marble & Grain (02 6262 6442, tipyoureit.com.au). brow, make-up and skin specialists.
(02 6246 9555, marbleandgrain.com.au) for 3 minutes 1 minute
contemporary European cuisine; Elk & Pea
(0436 355 732, elkandpea.com.au) for South 1.30pm 6pm till late
American-influenced dishes; Black Fire Enjoy a pit stop for lunch at Lazy Su
12
Wander to BentSpoke Brewing Co.
17
(02 6230 5921, blackfirerestaurant.com.au) (02 5105 3812, lazy-su.com.au), (02 6257 5220, bentspokebrewing.
for tasty Mediterranean; and Eightysix Braddon’s delicious fusion of Japanese, com.au) for craft beer and a meal. Then
(02 6161 8686, eightysix.com.au) for Korean and American cuisine. After
18
head to Hopscotch (02 6107 3030,
consistently good food and a fun atmosphere. lunch, stroll five minutes to Frugii hopscotchbar.com.au) for a drink;
Only a 15-minute stroll from Lonsdale 13
Dessert Laboratory (02 6248 5748)
19
Tipsy Bull (02 6248 7999, tipsybull.
Street, at Ainslie + Gorman Arts Centres, for a scrumptious treat, courtesy of com.au), where gin is their specialty;
is Sage Dining Rooms (02 6249 6050, ice-cream alchemist John Marshall. and Knightsbridge Penthouse
20
sagerestaurant.net.au), which boasts Dessert fans travel from far and wide (02 6262 6221, knightsbridgepenthouse.
award-winning modern Australian fare to sample his flavour sensations. com.au) to sip late-night cocktails.
and the delightful alfresco Mint Garden Bar.
visitcanberra.com.au 5
MANUKA Floriade
Festival
Long established as a sophisticated
Canberra precinct, Manuka is home to an
array of boutique retail shops, bars and
restaurants. Fashion shoppers will enjoy
browsing the racks of Lusso by Paris
(02 6239 7788, lussobyparis.com), Things
of Desire (02 6260 8844, todesire.com.au),
Momento Dezigns (02 6295 1146, momento
dezigns.com.au) and Department of The
Exterior (02 6239 4225).
Check out Wolfie (02 6239 6038) for kids’
clothing; Creations Jewellers Canberra
(02 6295 1763, creationsjewellers.com.au)
for award-winning designs; Bijoux Jewellers
(02 6162 1117, bijouxjewellers.com) for
accessories; and Paperchain Bookstore
(02 6295 6723, paperchainbookstore.com.au)
for something great to read.
Manuka’s international cuisine options
include Korean at Tosung Firewood BBQ
Public Bar
(02 6295 2627, tosung.com.au); Italian at
Belluci’s (02 6239 7424, bellucis.com.au);
authentic Malaysian at Abell’s Kopi Tiam
(02 6239 4199, abellskopitiam.com.au); KINGSTON
Chinese at Timmy’s Kitchen (02 6295 6537,
timmyskitchen.com.au); and delicious Like Manuka, Kingston has earned its Award-winning East Hotel is home to Muse
Indian at Jewel of India (02 6295 7037, reputation as an up-market and stylish (02 6178 0024, musecanberra.com.au), which
jewelofindia.com.au). part of town. For fashion and accessories, combines food, wine and books; traditional
For modern Australian dining, make there’s Honeysuckle & Lace (02 6134 6421) Italian restaurant Agostini’s (02 6178 0048,
your way to Urban Pantry (02 6162 3556, and CARDIF Collective (0455 911 140, agostinis.com.au); and the relaxing Joe’s
urbanpantrymanuka.com.au); grab fresh cardifcollective.com.au). Bar (02 6178 0050, joesateast.com).
coffee from the revamped Ona Manuka Keep your eyes peeled to see a politician
(02 6162 3321, onacoffee.com.au); or dive from nearby Parliament House noshing on
into a calorie-busting FreakShake from Chinese at Portia’s Place (02 6239 7970). Maple + Clove
Patissez (02 6156 3413, patissez.com.au). Penny University (02 6162 1500,
Public Bar (02 6161 8808, publicbar.com.au) pennyuniversitycafe.com) serves all-day
is a welcoming, casual watering hole. café meals; Silo Bakery (02 6260 6060,
Sports fans will be drawn to Manuka Oval silobakery.com.au) bakes quality bread
(02 6228 0300, manukaoval.com.au) for and pastries; Otis Dining Hall (02 6260 6066,
AFL games in winter, and international and thisisotis.com.au) does modern Australian
Prime Minister’s XI cricket in summer. To and European dishes; and Pizza Arte
cool off on hot days, take a dip at Manuka (02 6239 6777, pizzaarte.com.au) has
Pool (02 6295 1910, manukapool.com.au). perfected wood-fired pizza and calzone.
BARTON
Five minutes’ drive from Manuka is Barton, For breakfast, try wholefoods café Maple
known for its convenient Parliamentary + Clove (02 6162 0777, mapleandclove.
Triangle location, gorgeous surroundings com.au). Eat your way around the world
and culinary delights. at Lilotang (02 6273 1424, lilotang.com.
Stay at the Hotel Realm (02 6163 1800, au) for Japanese; Ostani (02 6163 1802,
hotelrealm.com.au), Burbury Hotel & ostani.com.au) for European fusion buvette.com.au), for classic French food; or
Apartments (02 6173 2700, burburyhotel. cuisine; Chairman & Yip (02 6162 1220, Vincent (02 6273 7773) for an international
com.au), Little National Hotel (02 6188 chairmangroup.com.au) for Cantonese; wine list to match the exquisite food.
3200, littlenationalhotel.com.au) or Ottoman (02 6273 6111, ottomancuisine. Energise and rejuvenate at Hale Spa
Brassey Hotel (02 6273 3766, brassey com.au) for modern Turkish-inspired fare; (02 6273 3101, halehealth.com.au) or Mudd
hotel.com.au). Buvette Bistro and Wine Bar (02 6163 1818, The Spa (02 6162 0909, mudd.com.au).
6 1300 554 114
Precincts
PIALLIGO/MAJURA
Canberra Airport, in the east of the ACT, cottage; and Pialligo Estate (02 6247 6060,
is flanked by two polar-opposite suburbs. thepialligoestate.com.au), which offers
Semi-rural Pialligo is a quiet, tranquil artisanal food and wine.
area that’s home to nurseries and cafés, For a rural experience that’s fun
while the more recently developed Majura and educational, visit The Truffle Farm
is a retail hub that features Majura Park (0400 483 082, thetrufflefarm.com.au)
Insider
Shopping Centre (02 6275 2252, majura during truffle season for tours and hunts
parkshopping.com.au) and commercial for the edible delicacy.
juggernauts Costco and IKEA. Just 10 minutes’ drive up Majura Parkway
Drive to Beltana Road in Pialligo to
discover Rodney’s Plants Plus (02 6248
6933, rodneys.com.au), a nursery and
café that’s been operating since 1974. For
is the cellar door of Mount Majura Vineyard
(02 6262 3070, mountmajura.com.au),
where you can sample wine, cheese and
other delights. Four kilometres from
VIEW
Michael Liu works for cultural events
ceramics and linen, head to Bisonhome the city centre and 15 minutes’ drive company Dionysus and loves Canberra’s
(02 6257 7255, bisonhome.com). For gifts from Pialligo, you’ll find the beautiful outdoors by day and the city’s finest
and homewares, Bliss Garden & Giftware Jerrabomberra Wetlands (13 22 81, food, drink and music by night
(02 6257 8358, blissgardengiftware. jerrabomberra wetlands.org.au), The
com.au) has you covered. Culinary treats nature reserve is a refuge for migrating Where is Canberra’s ultimate
can be found at Pod Food (02 6257 3388, birds from the Northern Hemisphere place to unwind?
podfood.com.au), housed in a 1930s and inland Australia. I love driving up Mount Ainslie
to take in the whole city. There’s
a fantastic walking track from the
base of the mountain, just next to
the Australian War Memorial.
Also, when my family come down
from Townsville, I take them on an
early morning hot-air balloon ride.
What are the best hidden gems?
My two favourite Chinese eateries:
Tak Kee Roast Inn (02 6257 4939)
in Dickson, with their gorgeous
roast duck and pork hanging in the
window, and Happy’s (02 6249 7015,
happys.com.au) in the CBD. Both
are unassuming restaurants –
but quick and delicious. Also, for a
The Truffle Farm great collection of tasty street nosh,
head to the ANU Pop-Up Reunion
Village (pop-up.anu.edu.au). This
KINGSTON FORESHORE hub of food trucks brings a buzzing
atmosphere to the Australian
A more recent addition to the Canberra thecinnabar.com.au) serves excellent National University on the edge
landscape, this waterfront community Chinese cuisine. The Dock (02 6239 6333, of the CBD.
boasts restaurants, bars and cafés. thedockkingston.com.au) and Walt & Burley
Local Press Cafe (02 6162 1422, (02 6239 6648, waltandburley.com.au) Where is your favourite place
localpresscafe.com.au) gets glowing gastropubs do flavoursome, hearty meals. to grab a drink?
reviews for its delicious wholefoods. Kingston Foreshore is also a burgeoning My second home, Knightsbridge
Contemporary Thai restaurant arts destination, thanks to Megalo Print Penthouse (02 6262 6221,
Morks (02 6295 0112, morks.com.au) Studio + Gallery (02 6232 6041, megalo.org) knightsbridgepenthouse.com.au),
is a local favourite, as is Molto Italian and Canberra Glassworks (02 6260 7005, where I DJ, has a great dance floor
(02 6140 7039, moltoitalian.com). canberraglassworks.com). and makes a mean cocktail. I also
Betti Bravo’s (02 6295 7000, bettibravos. Every Sunday, the Old Bus Depot Markets enjoy kicking back with some wine
com.au) celebrates Caribbean flavours; (02 6295 3331, obdm.com.au) features more and tapas at Parlour (02 6257 7325,
7 by the Lake (02 6140 7040, sevenby than 200 stalls, while the Three Sixty Fashion parlour.net.au).
thelake.com) features all things Market (threesixtyfm.com) is a seasonal,
Indian; and Cinnabar (02 6140 7038, fun place to pick up niche, recycled clothing.
visitcanberra.com.au 7
Hotel Hotel
NEWACTON
Situated in the south-west pocket of Visitors to NewActon
Canberra’s CBD, just a stone’s throw from are spoilt for choice when
Lake Burley Griffin, NewActon (newacton. it comes to fine food and
com.au) is a flourishing precinct that is drinks. The kitchen at
forging its own identity. An innovative A. Baker (02 6287 6150,
and popular cultural hub underpinned abaker.com.au) serves
by progressive architecture and design, dishes that hero local
this buzzing region has become a beacon produce and housemade
of luxury hotels, apartment living, cafés, bread, while the venue’s
Mocan and
Green Grout
restaurants and outdoor art. downstairs level has Black
The focal point of NewActon is the Market (bmbar.com.au), an
magnificent Hotel Hotel (02 6287 6287, intimate cocktail bar that showcases and Lucky’s Speakeasy (02 6247 6244,
hotel-hotel.com.au), a luxurious creative and high-end mixing techniques. qtcanberra.com.au), where patrons are
establishment housed in the award- More casual dining can be found at modern treated to curated drinks and DJ music.
winning Nishi building. This world-class Italian restaurant Bicicletta (02 6262 8683, For sumptuous cocktails, venture to the
architectural masterpiece is a feast for bicicletta.com.au); Mocan and Green Grout Library Bar (02 6175 2222) at Peppers Gallery
the senses. Within the hotel is Monster (02 6162 2909, mocanandgreengroutcom. Hotel, or spend an afternoon enjoying Spanish
Kitchen and Bar (monsterkitchen.com.au), wordpress.com), a retro chic café; and share plates on the open terrace at Parlour
where exquisite fusion food tempts diners TwentyOne Cafe & Groceries (02 6162 0550), Wine Room (02 6257 7325, parlour.net.au).
– morning, noon and night; Palace Electric where the big breakfasts are divine. Over If you’re after a few hours of pampering,
Cinema (02 6222 4900, palacecinemas. at QT Canberra boutique accommodation indulge at Soma Day Spa (02 6162 3636,
com.au); and the visually stimulating Nishi is Capitol Bar & Grill (02 6247 1488, soma.net.au) with treatments – including
Gallery (hotel-hotel.com.au/amenities/ qtcanberra.com.au), which is acclaimed facials, massaging, light therapy and waxing
nishi-gallery). for prime-cut steaks and Italian specialties; – that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
8 1300 554 114
Precincts
8 9
Chi
lder
NEWACTON DAY ITINERARY sS
tree
t
There’s so much to see and do in NewActon, you can
easily fill a day with eating, drinking and sightseeing
8.30am
Lo
M
Devour some baked eggs or a bacon, relish and egg
nd
ar
Ell er y Cr es ce nt
cu
on
1
roll at café Mocan and Green Grout (02 6162 2909,
s
C
mocanandgreengroutcom.wordpress.com). After breakfast,
Cl
irc
ar
ui
wander around their grower’s patch, then check out the oak t
ke
ee
t
2 3
tree and John Avery Gardens community green space. tr
nS
St
rdo
re
1 minute
Go
et
10am e
nu
McC oy Circ uit
Leave your car for the day and hire a bicycle from NewActon e
Av
4
Bike Hire (newacton.com.au/place/newacton-bike-hire), h
u rg
pedalling around the precinct and along the Lake Burley inb 6 2
ne
Griffin foreshore. Visit the National Museum of Australia
5
Ed 11 all
La
d
(1800 026 132, nma.gov.au) at Acton Peninsula, where the 12 K en 1
social history of our nation is honoured and preserved. 4
10 3
7
15 minutes
1pm y
s Wa
Parke
6
Return your rental bike, then walk one minute to A. Baker
(02) 6287 6150, abaker.com.au) for fresh housemade bread.
Wander across to Palace Electric Cinema (02 6222 4900,
Cycle around Lake Burley 5
7
palacecinemas.com.au/cinemas/electric) located in the
new-age NewActon Nishi complex and catch a movie in one of Griffin foreshore to the
the eight stylish, fully licensed cinemas featuring a stunning National Museum of Australia 15 minutes
Prosecco bar.
7pm
7 minutes
Make your way to Hotel Hotel for dinner at Monster Kitchen
4pm 10
and Bar (monsterkitchen.com.au) and enjoy delicious
8
Head on foot to the ANU School of Music (02 6125 5700, contemporary share plates. After your meal, slip over to
music.anu.edu.au) for a look around before strolling to 11
Black Market (bmbar.com.au), a tiny cocktail bar in the
Canberra’s original craft brewpub, the Wig & Pen Tavern basement of A. Baker. If you’re keen for a late-night tipple,
9
& Brewery (02 6248 0171) at Llewellyn Hall. 12
finish at Parlour (02 6257 7325, parlour.net.au).
Nishi Gallery
TICK THESE OFF YOUR LIST!
BICICLETTA – $$$ MOCAN AND GREEN GROUT – $
(02) 6262 8683 (02) 6162 2909
bicicletta.com.au m
ocanandgreengroutcom.
wordpress.com
BLACK MARKET – $
bmbar.com.au MONSTER KITCHEN
AND BAR – $$$
CAPITOL BAR & GRILL – $$$$ (02) 6287 6287
(02) 6247 1488 monsterkitchen.com.au
qtcanberra.com.au
PARLOUR WINE ROOM – $$$
LUCKY’S SPEAKEASY – $ (02) 6257 7325
(02) 6247 1270 parlour.net.au
qtcanberra.com.au
TWENTYONE CAFE
LIBRARY BAR – $ & GROCERIES – $
(02) 6262 8683 (02) 6162 0550
peppers.com.au/ facebook.com/
gallery/dining twentyonecafegroceries
$ $25 & under $$ $25 to $40 $$$ $40-55 $$$$ $55 & over visitcanberra.com.au 9
KEY Breakfast dish and coffee or main and drink Main and drink Two-course meal Three-course meal
CANBERRA CITY
Visitors are spoilt for shopping choice in
the heart of town, with the Canberra Centre
(02 6247 5611, canberracentre.com.au)
boasting myriad high-street brands. Its
new Monaro Mall section is a beauty and
wellness hub highlighted by the Mecca
Maxima (02 6248 6085, mecca.com.au)
concept store with artistry bar – the first
of its kind in Australia – and retail giant
H&M (hm.com/au).
Fancy independent stores? Mussen
Boutique (02 6162 0664, mussen.com.au)
features street and luxe fashion; Trove
(trovecanberra.com.au) is an innovative
collective of 30 artists and designers; and
Sancho’s Dirty Laundry (0431 285 160,
sanchosdirtylaundry.com) sells lowbrow
art products, clothes and skate decks.
Landspeed Records (02 6248 9220)
has been Canberra’s leading independent
record store since 1994 and is also home to
Cowboys & Angels clothing. Not-for-profit Floriade NightFest
Craft ACT: Craft + Design Centre Shop
(02 6262 9333, craftact.org.au) supports
artists, designers and makers. (02 6247 2228, bluginger.com.au) for tasty deluxe dining restaurant Natural Nine.
If you’re keen to catch a show, book Indian cuisine; and Courgette Restaurant The Canberra Museum and Gallery
a seat at the Canberra Theatre Centre (02 6247 4042, courgette.com.au), with (02 6207 3968, cmag.com.au) showcases
(02 6275 2700, canberratheatrecentre. its European/Australian dishes. The social history artefacts and visual art,
com.au) or The Street Theatre (02 6247 1223, delightful Koko Black (02 6230 4040, while the National Convention Centre
thestreet.org.au). If you feel like a movie, kokoblack.com) and new-to-the-Canberra- (02 6276 5200, nccc.com.au) hosts
there’s Dendy Cinema (02 6221 8900, scene Haigh’s Chocolates (02 6257 3214, conferences and events.
dendy.com.au) and Palace Electric Cinema haighschocolates.com.au) are chocolate- In the summer months, stroll to Glebe
(02 6222 4900, palacecinemas.com.au). lover’s paradises; and The Cupping Room Park on the eastern edge of the city, or
Exquisite dining in the city is highlighted (02 6257 6412, thecuppingroom.com.au) is Commonwealth Park by Lake Burley Griffin,
by Raku (02 6248 6869, rakudining.com.au), a concept café serving up the perfect coffee. which is home to the Floriade festival
which delivers Japanese culinary precision; The recently refurbished Casino (1300 852 780, floriadeaustralia.com)
Akiba (02 6162 0602, akiba.com.au), which Canberra (02 6257 7074, casinocanberra. that has showcased gorgeous spring floral
serves modern Asian cuisine; Blu Ginger com.au) offers gaming tables, bars and arrangements for more than three decades.
Australia (02 6262 1154, bookplate.com.au) In the Burbury Hotel, enjoy amazing
offers breakfast, lunch and high tea. The Cantonese food at Chairman & Yip
heritage-listed Tea Lounge at Hyatt Hotel (02 6162 1220, chairmangroup.com.au/
Canberra (02 6269 8815, canberra.park. chairmanyip) and authentic Japanese at
hyatt.com) is another afternoon high- Lilotang (02 62731424, chairmangroup.
Bookplate tea option from Friday to Sunday. Dom’s com.au/lilotang). Vincent (02 6273 7773,
Coffee Bar and Gelato (0481 501 513) and vincentrestaurant.com.au) offers food-
TASTES IN THE TRIANGLE The Deck at Regatta Point (02 6230 7234,
thedeckatregattapoint.com.au) both have
and-wine matching; Ottoman Cuisine
(02 6273 6111, ottomancuisine.com.au)
While taking in the sights of the views of the lake. serves fantastic Turkish in its elegant
Parliamentary Triangle, enjoy a break at Behind Parliament House, towards Art Deco pavilion; and Maple + Clove
one of the on-site cafés. Award-winning Manuka, is the quiet hidden-gem suburb of (02 6162 0777, mapleandclove.com.au)
Bookplate at the National Library of Barton, which offers an array of fine dining. is all about nourishing wholefoods.
10 1300 554 114Precincts
Insider
Blundells
Cottage VIEW
Myles Chandler, from Mocan and Green
Grout café and the Goodspeed Bicycle
If you prefer to see Lake Burley Griffin Company in NewActon, shares his
by floating on it, enjoy a sunset pedal kayak favourite Canberra hangouts
tour with Canberra Urban Adventures or Where are your go-to places to
an electric-boat experience with GoBoat eat and drink in Canberra?
(0401 026 068, goboatcanberra.com.au). Barrio Collective Coffee
Lake Burley Griffin Cruises (0419 418 846, (barriocollective.com) is a cosy
lakecruises.com.au) shows visitors all venue in the heart of Braddon
the best sights, such as the Captain Cook that’s operated by brilliant coffee
Memorial water jet and National Carillon roasters and baristas. The Polish
belltower. The ever-changing views of Lake White Eagle Club (02 6248 8563,
LAKESIDE
Burley Griffin can also be experienced whiteeagleclub.com.au) at the
aboard the MV Southern Cross (02 6273 O’Connor shops has a great
1784, cscc.com.au/ourboat). atmosphere. We’re spoilt when
As the centrepiece of Canberra, the pretty While you’re in the lake’s vicinity, take it comes to these types of clubs
Lake Burley Griffin offers much to discover. in the national icons of the Parliamentary in Canberra, with communities
Explore the foreshore on foot or two Triangle – Parliament House, Museum of who share traditional meals.
wheels, courtesy of NewActon Bike Hire Australian Democracy at Old Parliament
(newacton.com.au/place/newacton-bike- House, National Library of Australia, What other Canberra activities
hire), Mulga Bicycle Tours (02 6262 3957, National Gallery of Australia, National do you enjoy?
mulgabicycletours.com.au), Canberra Portrait Gallery, High Court of Australia I love cycling. Canberra has world-
Urban Adventures (1300 207 354, urban and Questacon: The National Science and class mountain biking facilities at
adventures.com) electric-bike tours or Technology Centre – before heading over Mount Stromlo and brilliant road
Seg Glide Ride (0406 379 518, segglideride. to the National Capital Exhibition and cycling and cyclepath routes. The
com.au) Segway tours. Social group Pedal historic Blundells Cottage (02 6272 2902, plant nurseries and landscaping
Power ACT (pedalpower.org.au) also has nca.gov.au), the only remaining small businesses in Pialligo are also
events on its calendar that take in the lake. farmhouse standing in central Canberra. some of my favourite places to
visit – the gardens at both Mocan
Lake Burley Griffin and Goodspeed are very important
to us. I enjoy the Capital Region
Farmers Market in Mitchell
(capitalregionfarmersmarket.
com.au), as it makes me appreciate
farmers and their produce.
SNAP HAPPY!
Get behind the lens and experience
all the beauty Canberra and its iconic
locations have to offer with a Capture
Canberra photography tour.
0412 412 223 photoschool.com.au
visitcanberra.com.au 11Cockington
Green Gardens
GOLD CREEK VILLAGE
North Canberra has experienced admiring the attention to detail and the
a population boom over the past 25 years wonderfully manicured gardens. There’s
and its Gold Creek Village has become also a mini steam-train ride kids will love.
a popular destination for family activities, The Canberra Reptile Zoo (02 6253 8533,
food and shopping. There’s enough to reptilesinc.com.au) is home to a huge
see and do in the precinct – and historic variety of pythons, snakes, turtles,
Ginninderra Village within it – to fill a goannas and geckos. Across the road, the Versatile
couple of days exploring on foot. Having Canberra Walk-in Aviary (02 6230 2044,
Restaurant
grown with the northern Canberra suburbs canberrawalkinaviary.com.au) features
surrounding it, this hub of historical, modern 500 birds; more than 60 species of these This facility is an excellent excursion
and exciting attractions has never been feathered friends can be observed, fed for school groups and guided tours
more appealing. and photographed. are available.
Picturesque Cockington Green Gardens The fun and educational National For visitors who are keen on admiring
(02 6230 2273, cockingtongreen.com.au) Dinosaur Museum (02 6230 2655, quintessential Australian art, the eclectic
opened in 1979 to bring a unique English nationaldinosaurmuseum.com.au) and culturally rich Aarwun Gallery
feel to Canberra. Home to delicately crafted boasts Australia’s largest permanent (02 6230 2055, aarwungallery.com)
miniature building displays, you’ll enjoy display of dinosaur and prehistoric fossils. features a collection of contemporary
works, Indigenous pieces and heritage
items by famous artists such as Norman
CUTE AND QUIRKY Five shops you must drop by when visiting Gold Creek Village Lindsay, Pro Hart and David Boyd.
Gold Creek Village also has plenty to
BOWER BIRDS THE LOLLY SHOP STAGHEAD offer visitors looking for unique shopping
Gifts and homewares Sweet treats Vintage boutique furniture
(see “Cute and Quirky”, left) and dining
(02) 6230 9244 (02) 6230 2556 (02) 6230 9665
experiences. The George Harcourt Inn
staghead.com.au
(02 6230 2484, georgeharcourt.com) has
FLIGHT OF FANCY been pouring drinks and cooking tasty
TOTALLY COUNTRY
Collectables and gifts Gifts and homewares English meals since 1980, and The Green
The Lolly
(02) 6230 2712 (02) 6230 2842
Shop Herring (02 6230 2657, thegreenherring.
com.au) has truly earned its esteemed
12 1300 554 114Precincts
GOLD CREEK VILLAGE DAY ITINERARY
Your fun-packed schedule awaits in Canberra’s north
9am
Get a big day off to
a delicious start at
Thumper & Miss Bunny Ed ie Pa yn e Cl os e
5
Specialty Coffee 1
(0475 422 552). The 2
Go
egg and bacon rolls O’Hanlon Place 6
ld
are extremely popular Curran Drive 4 1
Cr
7
and their pursuit of the
ee
3
perfect coffee makes
kR
this one of Canberra’s
oa
d
favourite cafés.
5 minutes
3 minutes
10am 3.30pm
Step way back in time at the National Dinosaur Museum 2 A landmark Canberra tourist destination since 1979,
(02 6230 2655, nationaldinosaurmuseum.com.au), which Cockington Green Gardens 5 (02 6230 2273, cockington
houses Australia’s largest permanent display of dinosaur green.com.au) showcases landscaped greenery and
and prehistoric fossils. It’s a fantastic destination that kids meticulously crafted miniature buildings. Spend a few
and adults can enjoy while also learning. hours admiring the displays and tranquil surrounds.
7 minutes
1 minute
12pm 6pm
Following your dinosaur fix, get up close and personal with After a day of exploring, pop into The George Harcourt Inn 6
some cold-blooded critters at the Canberra Reptile Zoo 3 (02 6230 2484, georgeharcourt.com). This British pub has
(02 6253 8533, reptilesinc.com.au). After mingling with been a Canberra icon for almost four decades, serving craft
more than 50 different species of reptiles, grab lunch at beer and hearty meals. If you prefer modern Australian, The
Cafe Injoy 4 (02 6255 5550), where all-day breakfast and Green Herring 7 (02 6230 2657, thegreenherring.com.au) is
seasonal meals make up the menu. a cosy restaurant housed in an 1860s slab hut with a fireplace.
Share your shots of Canberra National
Dinosaur
#VisitCanberra Museum
@motherandkaylee @ausseagirl
National Dinosaur Museum Lake Burley Griffin
reputation for fine Australian cuisine in
an intimate setting. Versatile Restaurant
(02 6230 9333, versatilerestaurant.com.au)
serves delicious Aussie fare in an elegant
space, while Sweet Copper (02 6230 9007)
café is a great spot for casual afternoon
tea. Dessert-lovers will be drawn to Stripey
Sundae (0403 430 708, stripeysundae
canberra.weebly.com), which satisfies
sweet-tooth cravings with homemade
ice-cream, milkshakes and, as the name
suggests, sundaes.
visitcanberra.com.au 13NIGHT
Shift
Canberra comes alive after
dark, with bars and pubs
where you can eat, drink
and be merry
White Rabbit
CITY BAR HOPPERS Cocktail Room
The thriving night-life hotspot in the centre
of Canberra pleases all crowds. Located
upstairs in the iconic Melbourne Building,
Bar Rochford (02 6230 6222, barrochford. recently relaunched 65 Northbourne
com.au), which offers wine, cocktails and (02 6262 6522, 65northbourne.com.au).
fine food, was crowned Bar of the Year In the Sydney Building, you’ll find
at Gourmet Traveller’s 2018 Restaurant the cosy and fun Reload Bar & Games
Guide Awards. Also housed in this building (02 6257 4232, reloadbar.com.au);
is Cuban-themed tropical bar The Highball and cocktail joint Treehouse Bar
Express (highballexpress.com.au) and (02 6162 0906, treehousebar.com.au).
traditional Irish pub PJ O’Reilly’s (02 6230
4752, pjoreillys.com.au).
Garema Place is home to Honkeytonks
(02 6262 6968, drinkhonkytonks.com.au) LIKE TO DANCE?
Just a stone’s throw away is 1980s-themed for Tex-Mex, sangria and tequila; Hippo
If you seek R&B and party anthems, head to
bar 88mph (facebook.com/88mphbar); Co (02 6247 7555, hippoco.com.au) for
Dolce Bar (02 6249 1888, facebook.com/
the Alice in Wonderland-inspired White whisky and jazz; and Playground Bar
dolcebarCBR). For DJ beats, get along to
Rabbit Cocktail Room (02 6257 7779, (02 6262 7171, playgroundbar.com.au)
Mr Wolf (02 6230 7493, mrwolfclub.com.au),
whiterabbitroom.com.au); and the stylish, for cocktails and good times. On the fringe
Academy (02 6253 2091, academyclub.
of Garema Place is two-storey Kokomo’s
com.au) or LGBTI nightclub Cube
(02 6171 2092, kokomos.com.au),
Bar Rochford has been named (02 6257 1110, cubenightclub.com.au).
a tropical-themed restaurant and tiki bar.
Australian Bar of the Year at Knightsbridge Penthouse (02 6262 6221,
the Gourmet Traveller 2018 In neighbouring Braddon, Tipsy Bull
knightsbridgepenthouse.com.au) is popular
Restaurant Guide Awards (02 6248 7999, tipsybull.com.au) boasts
for retro R&B, and MonkeyBAR (0448 653 287,
more than 80 types of gin and flavoursome
facebook.com/MonkeyBAR.Canberra)
tapas share plates.
heroes Latin American music and cocktails.
PUB CRAWL
Finding a beer and pub grub in the middle (02 6257 0111, kingomalleys.com.au) is
of the city is easy. Mooseheads Pub & another pub favourite, while Brew Nation
Nightclub (02 6257 6496, mooseheads. (brewnation.com.au) specialises in quality
com.au) is a Canberra icon that’s relaxed craft beer. The Phoenix (02 6162 1581,
during the day and pumping late at night. lovethephoenix.com) has long been a hit
The centrally located King O’Malley’s for beer, trivia, music and poetry.
14 1300 554 114Precincts
BEYOND THE CBD
Venture out of the centre of town
CULTURE-VULTURES to discover these evening gems
Canberra has plenty to offer fans of music AVENUE C WINE CO (CAMPBELL)
and theatre. For performance art, check out Wine bar
Canberra Theatre Centre (02 6275 2700, (02) 6247 5991
canberratheatrecentre.com.au) and The avenuecwineco.com.au
Street Theatre (02 6247 1223, thestreet.
BETTI BRAVO’S (KINGSTON)
org.au). The city’s foremost acoustic spaces
Caribbean-themed bar
for musical performances are Llewellyn Hall
(02) 6295 7000
(02 6125 5767, llewellynhall.anu.edu.au)
bettibravos.com.au
and The Royal Theatre (02 6276 5200,
nccc.com.au). BLACK MARKET (NEWACTON)
Enjoy bands at Transit Bar (02 6162 0899, High-end cocktails
transitbar.com.au) in the city or The Abbey bmbar.com.au
(02 6230 2905, theabbey.com.au) in Nicholls.
THE DUXTON (O’CONNOR)
Performing-arts café Smith’s Alternative
Live music and sport
(0401 084 773, smithsalternative.com),
(02) 6162 0799
features nightly entertainment such as
theduxton.com.au
music, comedy, poetry, cabaret, burlesque
and performance art. JOE’S BAR (KINGSTON)
Hopscotch
All points of the Canberra compass Italian cocktail and wine bar
feature state-of-the-art cinemas, including (02) 6178 0050
Dendy (02 6221 8900, dendy.com.au) in the joesateast.com
city; Palace Electric Cinema (02 6222 4900,
HA HA BAR (BELCONNEN)
palacecinemas.com.au) in NewActon; Hoyts
Cocktails
in Belconnen (02 6223 5300, hoyts.com.au)
(02) 6251 6110
and Woden (02 6223 5310, hoyts.com.au);
hahabar.com.au
Event Cinemas in Manuka (02 6295 9042,
eventcinemas.com.au); and Limelight HIGHGATE HOUSE BAR & KITCHEN (KINGSTON)
Cinemas in Tuggeranong (02 6293 6100, SoCal vibes
limelightcinemas.com.au). Arc Cinema (02) 6239 6891
at the National Film and Sound Archive highgatebar.com.au
(02 6248 2000, nfsa.gov.au) also screens THE LOFT (O’CONNOR)
classic and cult films in its beautiful Art NYC chic
Arc Cinema
Deco cinema. (02) 6162 0799
theduxton.com.au/the-loft
OUTSIDE THE CITY CENTRE LUCKY’S SPEAKEASY (NEWACTON)
Cocktails and bar snacks
A short stroll from Civic, in the NewActon
(02) 6267 1270
precinct, is chilled-out Lucky’s Speakeasy
qtcanberra.com.au
(02 6247 6244, qtcanberra.com.au). In
Campbell, the bespoke Avenue C Wine Co PARLOUR WINE ROOM (NEWACTON)
(02 6247 5991, avenuecwineco.com.au) Spanish food and wine
is a popular wine bar and retailer, and The (02) 6257 7325
Pedlar (02 5100 5929, thepedlar.com.au) Polit Bar parlour.net.au
is a laid-back café and pub open from POLIT BAR (MANUKA)
early until late. Pub grub, beer and whisky (02 6251 6110, hahabar.com.au); Lyneham Cocktail bar
is on the menu at Hopscotch (02 6107 3030, is home to Tilley’s Devine Café Gallery (02) 6162 2947
hopscotchbar.com.au) in Braddon. (02 6247 7753, tilleys.com.au); and in politbar.co
Casey Jones Gastropub (02 6253 8961, Manuka, Polit Bar (02 6162 2947, politbar.
caseyjones.pub) serves fine food and drinks com) serves top-shelf cocktails. Highgate TILLEY’S DEVINE CAFÉ GALLERY (LYNEHAM)
to Canberra’s north, while Young & Frisky House Bar & Kitchen (02 6239 6891, Café and occasional live music
(02 6171 6257, youngandfrisky.com.au) highgatebar.com.au) brings SoCal cool to (02) 6247 7753
brings fried chicken and rum to Gungahlin. Kingston, while Betti Bravo’s (02 6295 7000, tilleys.com.au
Belconnen is well served by Ha Ha Bar bettibravos.com.au) has a Caribbean vibe.
visitcanberra.com.au 15Food
HEAVEN
From cool snack spots to hip cafés
and fine-dining options, here are
50 exquisite destinations putting
Canberra cuisine on the map
The nation’s capital boasts a sterling
reputation for eclectic and high-quality food INSIDERS’ TOP PICKS
options, from vineyards to cafés, cutting-edge
1 3
to kid-friendly. Our expert Canberra insiders EIGHTYSIX CAPITOL BAR & GRILL
explain why you need to indulge in the 50 BRADDON • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$$ NEWACTON • ITALIAN • $$$$
most-talked-about dining destinations in the This explosion of modern cuisine is Housed in the QT Canberra hotel
ACT. Sharing their thoughts are Brian Tunks begging to be Instagrammed. Upscale and adorned with political pop-art decor,
from homewares store Bisonhome; former eightysix is known for its banoffee pie Capitol’s huge menu blends hearty Italian,
MasterChef contestants Trent Harvey and and other creative-yet-refined dishes. grilled prime cuts and fresh seafood.
Ellie Paxton-Hall; Mount Majura winemaker BRIAN SAYS: “Chic urban setting with serious BELINDA SAYS: “If you want the real deal
Dr Frank van de Loo; River Cottage Australia epicurean cred. More hats than Royal when it comes to steak, Capitol Bar & Grill
star Paul West; Belinda Neame from mobile Ascot and deserves every one of them. is a must. It will melt in your mouth.”
market The Forage; chef Ben Willis from Don’t miss the caramel popcorn sundae.” (02) 6247 1488
Aubergine and Temporada; and 2016 (02) 6161 8686 qthotelsandresorts.com/canberra/
Australian Barista Champion Hugh Kelly. eightysix.com.au eat-drink/capitol-bar-grill
2 4
MEET THE INSIDERS LILOTANG MONSTER KITCHEN
BARTON • JAPANESE • $$$$ AND BAR
A contemporary and cool take on NEWACTON • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$
classic Japanese. Try the kingfish sashimi, An artistically designed oasis of flavour
udon noodle with kakiage tempura and where chef Sean McConnell serves
Trent Hugh Belinda Ellie
Harvey Kelly Neame Paxton-Hall classic yakitori skewers, or the tasting up inventive small plates over four
menu’s chargrilled lobster and egg tofu. aesthetically fascinating spaces.
And don’t forget the sake. BEN SAYS: “I regularly go to Monster Kitchen
BEN SAYS: “It’s modern and light Asian food and Bar. The food is great and it’s served
and the bento box is great for lunch.” until 1am, which is excellent for chefs.”
Brian Dr Frank Paul Ben (02) 6273 1424 (02) 6287 6287
Tunks van de Loo West Willis
chairmangroup.com.au/lilotang monsterkitchen.com.au
16 1300 554 114 $ $25 & under $$ $25 to $40 $$$ $40-55 $$$$ $55 & over
KEY Breakfast dish and coffee or main and drink Main and drink Two-course meal Three-course mealCOFFEE TR
Tantalise your ta AIL
st
with a Canberra e buds
Secrets
Great Food
Cafe Culture Wal
ki
Tour (0419 209 ng
canberrasecrets. 703,
com
Prices start at $8 .au).
9.
AUBERGINE COURGETTE
GRIFFITH • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$$ CANBERRA CITY • MODERN EUROPEAN • $$$$
A formal restaurant that won’t Glazes, sauces, foams and emulsions
make you feel out of place, Ben Willis’s elevate Courgette’s European flavours and
intimate and chic Aubergine delivers quality Australian produce to elegant delights.
ingredients across a menu that’s always GOODFOOD.COM.AU SAYS: “Lovingly put-together
evolving. Wine matching from their list of food in a restaurant that is unashamedly
more than 500 varieties is also a specialty. old-school fine dining.”
HUGH SAYS: “Aubergine is the place to go (02) 6247 4042
for special dining occasions. The staff courgette.com.au
are all very well trained and make it
a memorable experience.”
(02) 6260 8666 LANTERNE ROOMS
eightysix aubergine.com.au CAMPBELL • ASIAN • $$$$
Incredible Malaysian-Chinese cuisine
in a bustling atmosphere. The slow-cooked,
spicy Wagyu beef rendang is a must-try.
BELINDA SAYS: “If you want a warm and
intimate place to dine, look no further.
A beautiful twist on Malaysian cuisine.”
(02) 6249 6889
chairmangroup.com.au/lanterne_rooms
TEMPORADA
CANBERRA CITY • MODERN AUSTRALIAN
• $$$$
Another of chef Ben Willis’s restaurant
creations, Temporada is a relaxed place
to expand your palate.
Sage Dining THE CANBERRA TIMES SAYS: “This restaurant is
Rooms more casual than Willis’s hatted Aubergine,
but it is no less serious about the food.”
(02) 6249 6683
5
SAGE DINING ROOMS temporada.com.au
BRADDON • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$$
Located in one of Canberra’s oldest
buildings, the seasonal menu and fairy-lit HATS OFF TO THE WINNERS
garden bar is great for a special occasion.
ELLIE SAYS: “A thoughtful combination of THESE PRESTIGIOUS CANBERRA
textures and flavours makes the dishes RESTAURANTS HAVE EARNED A COVETED
interesting and delicious.”
HAT RATING IN THE SYDNEY MORNING
(02) 6249 6050
HERALD GOOD FOOD GUIDE 2018:
sagerestaurant.net.au
TWO HATS
AUBERGINE (GRIFFITH)
OTTOMAN CUISINE (BARTON)
ITALIAN AND SONS
BRADDON • ITALIAN • $$$
ONE HAT
Keeping it simple in the best tradition
CHAIRMAN & YIP (BARTON)
of Italian cuisine, this authentic eatery
EIGHTYSIX (BRADDON)
dishes out flavour, with wines to match ITALIAN AND SONS (BRADDON)
every mouthful. Its one-hat rating in the LILOTANG (BARTON)
Good Food Guide 2018 is well deserved. MONSTER KITCHEN & BAR (NEWACTON)
KEN SAYS: “The owners show a passion OTIS DINING HALL (KINGSTON)
for food, which is first class.” PULP KITCHEN (AINSLIE)
Lanterne
(02) 6162 4888 Rooms TEMPORADA (CANBERRA CITY)
italianandsons.com.au
visitcanberra.com.au 17BREAKFAST FAVES
Penny
University
11
DOUBLESHOT
DEAKIN • CAFÉ • $
Quirky interiors and a creative
atmosphere are Doubleshot’s flavour. This
is reflected in the menu, with Spanish eggs,
strawberries-and-cream hotcakes and
breakfast burritos.
BRIAN SAYS: “Great coffee and a casual
outdoor setting that’s hard to beat.
Try the roast pumpkin salad if you’re
there for lunch.”
(02) 6162 2027
doubleshotdeakin.com.au
12
Local Press Café
LOCAL PRESS CAFÉ
KINGSTON FORESHORE • CAFÉ • $
14 16
Nestled by the water’s edge, this SILO BAKERY + CAFÉ PENNY UNIVERSITY
wholefoods café is ideal if you’re seeking KINGSTON • CAFÉ • $ KINGSTON • CAFÉ • $
a healthy, fresh breakfast or brunch. It’s all about the tarts. And the This petite café makes for an
Their cold-pressed juices, smoothies bread. And the coffee. And the sit-down intimate dining experience. Their yummy
and teas come in a range of delicious menu. Plus, they have a cheese room full breakfast items include a chilli brekky dog,
natural flavours. of Australian and European selections. green eggs and ham and confit salmon.
ELLIE SAYS: “This is one of my faves. FRANK SAYS: “I’m a fanatic for great bread ELLIE SAYS: “This is such a cosy café to sit
It features all your standard breakfast and I’ve never found anything to beat Silo. at for hours. They also do a lot of in-house
items with a twist. Their star chefs I love everything about the place.” curing and smoking.”
combine regular café favourites with (02) 6260 6060 (02) 6162 1500
interesting techniques.” silobakery.com.au pennyuniversitycafe.com
(02) 6162 1422
localpresscafe.com.au
15
The Cupping Room
THE CUPPING ROOM
CANBERRA CITY • CAFÉ • $
13
RYE Part of ONA Coffee, Canberra’s
BRADDON • CAFÉ • $ largest specialty roasters, The Cupping
Boasting a seasonally focused Room’s champion baristas take their
menu full of healthy options, RYE is a coffee very seriously and offer a huge
buzzing café perfect for a morning spent variety of great brews. The French toast
sipping coffee and planning your day – with rhubarb is also a hit.
or refuelling with a sandwich or salad. HUGH SAYS: “The extensive coffee selection
GOODFOOD.COM.AU SAYS: “Rye’s wood fireplace is well executed and the amazing food
is a great spot to warm yourself while rotates seasonally. Try raspberry candy
waiting for your takeaway coffee. Or pull or gold-label filter coffee.”
up a couch and stay for a cosy breakfast.” (02) 6257 6412
(02) 6156 9694 thecuppingroom.com.au
ryecafe.com.au
18 1300 554 114Great Food
Pollen
The Pedlar
BEST FOR LUNCH
IVY & THE FOX BOOKPLATE and smokehouse, with a restaurant that
ACTON • CAFÉ • $ PARKES • CAFÉ • $ heroes their incredible fresh produce.
Located in historic Old Canberra Situated in the marble foyer of the TRENT SAYS: “It’s a bit out of town, but well
House, this eatery serves all-day brunch National Library of Australia, Bookplate worth the trip. It’s a nice country visit.”
and big tasty salads. does breakfast meals until 2pm as well (02) 6230 2487
ELLIE SAYS: “It’s simple food done well. I love as appetising lunch dishes. poacherspantry.com.au
the menu and the gardens are beautiful.” ELLIE SAYS: “In the heart of the Parliamentary
(02) 6257 9229 Zone, this wonderful café serves up stylish
ivyandthefox.com food. Beautiful glass windows give a lovely PIALLIGO ESTATE
outlook onto Lake Burley Griffin.” GARDEN PAVILIONS
(02) 6262 1154 AND GLASSHOUSE
BENTHAM STREET bookplate.com.au PIALLIGO • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$$
BAR ’N’ PIZZA A unique dining experience with produce
YARRALUMLA • PIZZA • $$ from the estate, charcuterie from their
The convivial atmosphere in this relaxed MOCAN AND smokehouse and views over Canberra.
eatery is matched by the smell of delicious GREEN GROUT BELINDA SAYS: “Pialligo Estate is in a league
pizzas moving from oven to table. NEWACTON • CAFÉ • $ of its own for farm-to-plate dining.”
BELINDA SAYS: “With an alfresco area, this is This cosy modern Australian establishment (02) 6247 6060
the place to meet in summer.” uses locally sourced ingredients. The menu thepialligoestate.com.au
(02) 6282 7741 is limited but every dish is done just right.
facebook.com/benthamstreetpizza ELLIE SAYS: “A cute NewActon café with so
much to offer. Everything is carefully put URBAN PANTRY
together with plenty of flavour and love.” MANUKA • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$
(02) 6162 2909 A laid-back dining venue at the
mocanandgreengroutcom. tranquil Lawns in Manuka, Urban Pantry
wordpress.com serves fresh local produce in leafy
surrounds. You can also purchase the
gourmet ingredients to take home.
POLLEN BRIAN SAYS: “A Manuka favourite and perfect
ACTON • CAFÉ • $$ spot for a lazy weekend lunch with friends.
Located within the Australian They do an excellent breakfast menu, too.”
National Botanic Gardens, Pollen has (02) 6162 3556
Urban Pantry a diverse lunch menu for adults and kids. urbanpantrymanuka.com.au
ELLIE SAYS: “A lovely place to eat lunch.
This café among the trees has a relaxed
Share your shots of Canberra feel and the food is healthy and nutritious.” THE PEDLAR
CAMPBELL • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$
#VisitCanberra (02) 6247 7321
Casual pub grub with schnitzels,
pollencafe.com.au
burgers and big-flavour dishes such as yellow
duck curry and Spanish caldereta hotpot.
POACHERS PANTRY BEN SAYS: “The Pedlar is a suburban pub
HALL • MODERN AUSTRALIAN • $$$$ and café hybrid where you can grab great
If you want to know what food and a beer.”
@boomingon @geojgbf!
Little Brother @ Red Hill The Cupping Room Canberra tastes like, this is the place. (02) 5100 5929
The rural property features a winery thepedlar.com.au
$ $25 & under $$ $25 to $40 $$$ $40-55 $$$$ $55 & over visitcanberra.com.au 19
KEY Breakfast dish and coffee or main and drink Main and drink Two-course meal Three-course mealFAMILY FAVOURITES
26 29
BRISCOLA DICKSON DUMPLING
CANBERRA CITY • ITALIAN • $$ HOUSE
Named after the Italian card game, DICKSON • CHINESE • $
Briscola specialises in incredible pizzas, Always busy with diners, the dumplings in
as well as Italian and local beverages. this establishment deserve their legendary
BELINDA SAYS: “Love local? You’ll love Briscola. reputation, which is why the joint is always
You can expect everything: local meats, packed. Other dishes on the menu include
gelato, coffee, wine and damn fine pizza.” Szechuan prawns and Singapore shredded
(02) 6248 5444 dry chilli beef.
briscolapizzeria.com.au BELINDA SAYS: “Dumpling lovers, look no
further. The Dickson Dumpling House
will ease your cravings with their Abell’s
27
KINN THAI flavour-packed varieties.”
Kopi Tiam
CANBERRA CITY • THAI • $$ (02) 6248 8350
Stir-fries and curries await in
the sleek surrounds of Kinn Thai. There’s
30
also a signature cocktail list that includes SAMMY’S KITCHEN
a sensational lemongrass and lychee martini. CANBERRA CITY • CHINESE/
BELINDA SAYS: “Kinn Thai is great for quick, MALAYSIAN • $$
authentic Thai cuisine as a weekday lunch Whether it’s sambal seafood curry,
or dinner before catching a movie.” shantung chicken, ma po chilli bean
(02) 6247 1277 curd or hawker-style noodles, Sammy’s
kinnrestaurant.com.au/canberra Kitchen is famous throughout Canberra
for its flavoursome Chinese and
Malaysian dishes.
28
GREASE MONKEY BELINDA SAYS: “It’s the go-to when you
BRADDON • BURGERS • $ have a movie date night because it’s
The grease in the name is quick and always delicious. The sizzling
a clue to how proud this place is about lamb with black pepper and snow peas
its incredible burgers. If you’re thirsty, is highly recommended.”
grab a beer, wine, cocktail or one of (02) 6247 1464
Kinn Thai
their great shakes. sammyskitchen.com.au
BEN SAYS: “It’s a burger-and-beers
place with live music. You can also Molto Italian
take the kids so it’s perfect for a lazy
Sunday afternoon.”
(02) 6174 1401
greasys.com.au
Grease
Monkey
20 1300 554 114Great Food
ASIAN FUSION
ABELL’S KOPI TIAM
MANUKA • CHINESE/MALAYSIAN • $$
Dishing up authentic Chinese
and Malaysian flavours, Abell’s Kopi Tiam
is a lively restaurant where you’ll find
both traditional and innovative cuisine.
BELINDA SAYS: “The place to go for no-fuss,
flavour-packed meals.”
(02) 6239 4199 Morks Restaurant
abellskopitiam.com.au XO
MORKS RESTAURANT
CHAIRMAN & YIP KINGSTON FORESHORE • THAI • $$$
BARTON • CANTONESE • $$$$ This contemporary take on Thai
After 20 years in the CBD, this cuisine includes barbecue pork buns and
fine-dining establishment moved to Barton’s fried pork ribs with spicy soy glaze as part
Burbury Hotel in 2016 and continues to craft of an always evolving menu.
elegant Cantonese cuisine. ELLIE SAYS: “Morks is one of my favourite
GOODFOOD.COM.AU SAYS: “Loyal fans enjoy restaurants to take interstate visitors
their favourites served with polished flair.” on a bustling Friday or Saturday night.”
(02) 6162 1220 (02) 6295 0112
chairmangroup.com.au/chairmanyip morks.com.au
XO
NARRABUNDAH • ASIAN • $$$
IORI AKIBA The guys behind XO bring
CANBERRA CITY • JAPANESE • $$$ CANBERRA CITY • ASIAN • $$ quirkiness to their modern Asian street
With three dining options – sushi Inspired by the informal vibe of food, with “sexy squid” and “strange
bar, shoes-off-and-kneeling tatami and East Asia’s food halls, Akiba showcases the flavour eggplant” gracing the menu.
regular tables – Iori is fun, shareable food. region’s dynamic flavours. BEN SAYS: “XO have chosen an out-of-the-
BELINDA SAYS: “A relaxed dining atmosphere, GOODFOOD.COM.AU SAYS: “It combines Japanese way location to open a really fun joint.”
Iori brings Japan to Canberra.” cartoon pop with the USA’s love of barbecue.” (02) 6295 9696
(02) 6257 2334 (02) 6162 0602 xo-restaurant.com.au
iori.com.au akiba.com.au
Locale ITALIAN FARE
39
rare and sliced, following the Tuscan rules AGOSTINIS
that deliver perfection. The stuzzichini KINGSTON • ITALIAN • $$$
appetisers are designed to share and the Combining Northern Italian cuisine
local and Italian wine list is brilliant. with a Roman twist, the menu at Agostinis
BELINDA SAYS: “Take the family to Molto Italian offers pizza, pasta and a whopping 1kg steak.
or get together with your friends and enjoy BELINDA SAYS: “It’s all about gathering around
the backdrop of Lake Burley Griffin.” the table and sharing good food and wine.”
(02) 6140 7039 (02) 6178 0048
moltoitalian.com agostinis.com.au
38 40
LOCALE MEZZALIRA
DEAKIN • ITALIAN • $$$ RISTORANTE
In Canberra’s inner south, CANBERRA CITY • ITALIAN • $$$$
Locale serves up scrumptious traditional Specialising in Southern Italian cuisine,
37
MOLTO ITALIAN pizza and handmade pasta from locally the menu in this city restaurant is divine.
KINGSTON FORESHORE • ITALIAN • $$$ sourced ingredients. BELINDA SAYS: “Mezzalira has a stunning
With housemade pasta served BELINDA SAYS: “Locale really is your local menu and wine list that’s perfect for
from a pecorino cheese wheel, this is about with simple, traditional Italian offerings.” a special occasion.”
as authentic as Italian restaurants get. The (02) 6162 2888 (02) 6230 0025
bistecca Fiorentina steak dish is cooked localepizzeria.com.au mezzalira.com.au
$ $25 & under $$ $25 to $40 $$$ $40-55 $$$$ $55 & over visitcanberra.com.au 21
KEY Breakfast dish and coffee or main and drink Main and drink Two-course meal Three-course mealYou can also read
